Tarun Karthick
Campbell Bay, 23 June 2023
The farmers of Great Nicobar have expressed their growing concerns over the delay in the procurement of copra at Minimum Support Price (MSP) and have issued a notice to the Chief Secretary of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, urging immediate action. In a letter addressed to the Chief Secretary, the farmers highlighted the promises made during the Chief Secretary’s visit in February 2023, where the commencement of copra procurement was assured within two months.
Despite an initial announcement that the Honourable Lt. Governor would inaugurate the procurement on May 5th, 2023, the ceremony was postponed without a communicated rescheduled date, causing distress among the farmers. With approximately 85 tonnes of copra ready for procurement, the farmers are facing additional challenges as the quality of the produce deteriorates during the ongoing monsoon season.
A meeting held on June 13th, 2023, with the General Manager of ANCOFED Ltd. further compounded the farmers’ concerns, as the promised commencement of copra procurement by June 15th, 2023, has not been initiated.
To express their grievances, the Great Nicobar Farmers Association has declared an indefinite hunger strike, scheduled to begin on June 28th, 2023, if favourable action is not taken before June 27th, 2023.
The farmers emphasize the perishable nature of copra and its limited shelf life, making immediate procurement crucial. They have completed all necessary formalities, including registration on the e-samridhi portal.
In response to the letter, the farmers expect the Chief Secretary to take prompt action to address their concerns and initiate the copra procurement process.